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Ms. Mia and Murder at the Desert Sunrise Resort

A Stolen Treasure, a Glamorous Resort, and a Whirlwind of Clever Sleuthing...

Embark on a Southwestern adventure full of fun, secrets, and suspense with Ms. Mia, a modern-day Miss Marple with a humorous twist. The charming amateur sleuth never misses a chance to discover secrets and rearrange lives at Spinel Resorts, the boutique hotel empire founded by her late husband.

When an ancient flute is unearthed at The Desert Sunrise Resort, Ms. Mia seizes the chance to host a dazzling exhibit, roping in charismatic archaeologist Kyle Lee to star in a documentary. But when the priceless artifact vanishes in the dead of night, the grand opening teeters on the brink of disaster—along with Ms. Mia's reputation.

Armed with wit, champagne, and aid from her prankster nephew and the resort’s brilliant concierge, Ms. Mia dives into the investigation. At her hotels, no thief—or murderer—escapes unchecked!

Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie's Miss Marple and Donna Andrews' Meg Langslow, this delightful whodunit overflows with charm, humor, and clever twists.

Check in to a lighthearted, thrilling getaway where mystery meets glamour with Ms. Mia and Murder at the Desert Sunrise Resort!

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2025

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About the author

Jennifer Branch

13 books3 followers
Jennifer Branch weaves cozy mysteries with the vibrant flair of her watercolor paintings, inspired by her renowned ability to capture joyful scenes from the Georgia coast, Maine, Venice, and beyond.
Her debut, Ms. Mia and Murder at the Grand Island Hotel, sweeps readers to a Georgia Sea Islands paradise. It's followed by Ms. Mia and Murder on Moose Isle, set on a secluded Maine island, and Ms. Mia and Murder at the Desert Sunrise Resort, which unfolds in a Southwest desert oasis.

As a modern landscape painter, Jennifer infuses her stories with vivid settings, inspired by her artist’s eye. When not writing or painting, she roams Georgia’s coastal shores, Maine's coast, and beyond with her husband, Roger, sons, Edwin and Owen, and dogs, Scout and Sam, finding inspiration in her travels.

Visit JenniferBranch.com to join her for more Ms. Mia adventures, books, and art!

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5 stars
42 (58%)
4 stars
23 (31%)
3 stars
7 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
2 reviews
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September 29, 2025
Very enjoyable read. I find Mia very entertaining, particularly as she is a more mature woman! Must be lovely to move from hotel to hotel and live in such luxury! She, however, seems very down to earth and certainly does not hesitate to get her hands dirty, so to speak!
7 reviews
August 31, 2025
I just finished reading Jennifer Branch’s new book, ”Ms. Mia and Murder at Desert Sunrise Resort.” It was given to me, but my review is my own. It is the third book that I have read in this series, and I believe they just get better and better. I hope she will write several more about Ms. Mia’s adventures. I will happily read every one.
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1,228 reviews11 followers
July 8, 2026
The Desert Sunrise Resort is the Spinel resort in Arizona. Mia Spinel is staying there to facilitate a show of ancient artifacts that were found in the area. Of special note, is a flute that could be 2000+ years old.
Because this book, like the rest of the series is a cozy mystery, a crime takes place and Mia needs to clear it up to save face for the hotel and her friends who work there.
It is an interesting adventure for the determined Ms Mia. The book also includes some fascinating facts about archeology.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews